Jeffrey Watts

Jeffrey Watts is the founder of Watts Atelier of the Arts. He is a contemporary American artist known for his expressive and painterly style, particularly in figurative work, landscapes, and still life. Influenced by masters like Nicolai Fechin, his art often showcases dynamic brushwork and a keen eye for light and form.

Erik Gist

E. M. Gist began his study of art with Jeff Watts in 1996. Three years later, Erik’s training developed into teaching where he is now one of the lead instructors at Watts Atelier of the Arts. Gist began his career as a professional artist in 1998, eventually transitioning into genre illustration, and he painted his first comic cover in 2007. Erik’s clients include Dark Horse Comics, Marvel Comics, DC Comics, BOOM! Studios, Disney Entertainment, TOR Publishing, Wizards of the Coast, Upperdeck, and Palladium Books. Erik has been a finalist for 2024 Eisner Awards, Chesley Award, Rondo Award, and Pulp Ark Award.

Ben Young

Ben Young has studied at Watts Atelier for the past seven years. He has worked as a freelance illustrator and conceptual designer. Clients include Sony Entertainment, Reflexive Entertainment, Upper Deck and Blizzard. Ben is currently working towards a career in fine art. View more of Ben’s work at www.benmyoung.com

Tom Babbey

Tom Babbey started taking classes at Watts Atelier in 2005. He is passionate about wildlife and fantasy, being enamored with RPG manuals and artwork from a young age. While studying at Watts Atelier, Tom became the Atelier’s “Animal Expert” with a deep knowledge of many different species and their respective anatomy and attributes. Aside from specializing in animals, Tom continues to do illustration and concept art work for Dungeons & Dragons, Magic the Gathering and Wizkids. He currently is an Art Director for Draco Studios.

Travis Wilson

Travis Wilson moved to California to attend Watts Atelier at the beginning of 2018, studying with the Online Program before that. For the past seven years he has worked towards his goal of teaching and working as a professional artist. On top of being a student and now a teacher, Travis also assists in running the behind the scenes of the Atelier. Finding much interest in design and sketching, Travis seeks to help others learn about how to bridge the gap between academics and creativity.

Course Materials

This course will use oil painting materials. For a list of all materials used in this course, visit the materials page.